“As I massaged their old joints or communed amongst
them without words, a remarkable thing happened—that
silence created an internal, safe space for me to float with
memories, helping me work through my own grief and
understand and accept life as it is.” A memoir–where animals, farm and nature show the way through loss.

I just got a phone call–and how nice to be individually called by phone–letting me know that this art series from "Misfits of Love" Healing Conversations in the Barnyard was selected to be in the annual exhibit and award annual in the Book category of the Society of Illustrators. I haven't entered award shows in years but am thrilled.

I will post details of the February 2014 NYC show and book when I know more.

An illustrated journey of one woman as she grapples with the death of her father. At her side were the Misfits she had adopted into her small farm's barnyard–a grumpy pig, and old donkey, handicapped goats and one very special elderly goat named Old Man Guinnias.

As she cared or hospiced these creatures, she was able to have her own internal conversations with each–helping her understand their journey better, also that of her father.

A beautiful, quiet book for anyone who has lost a loved one or parent, or who appreciates the healing power of nature and animals.

You will meet an old donkey

A grumpy pig can be herself

And it started with an old goat

From Katherine's readers

Thank you for making me believe again in enchantment. I know maintaining Apifera Farm must require constant hard work and attention and I know it's not completely a romantic idyll. But, your communication with your trees, plants and animals gives such hope for me. Dreama K, Virginia

What you are doing is my dream realized. Reading about your farm, your art and your activities gave me such hope for my own dreams....I just wanted to thank you personally for living your authentic life and doing what you do because you have inspired me in unspeakable ways. Kelli, LA

Today I felt that I had to email you and tell you what a comfort your blog and farm and work are to me. When I read your blog and see your photos and art, I feel like I am living on your farm, and it calms my soul. I feel that I know your animal friends, their souls and special lives. I love animals and yours speak to me, they really do. Else

I have had a LOT of problems for a long time with artist block. I was afraid of failure and also found it difficult to draw from imagination. This book have helped a lot so far by giving me lots of ideas and inspiration. Reem K. on Creative Illustration Workshop

...your book made me take my brush in my hands again. thank you so much! you gave me inspiration and motivation. Sevi, Belgium on Creative Illustration Workshop